The Chinese American Museum Presents the 24th Annual Historymakers Awards Gala

Asian American Journalists Association—LA Chapter (AAJA)

Advocacy in Action Award

Leading the challenge to advance diversity in the newsroom, AAJA-LA is committed to supporting fair and accurate coverage of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. The Chinese American Museum honors this organization for its dedication to professionalism and for encouraging the next generation of journalists.

Judge Dolly Gee

Judge Ronald S.W. Lew Visionary Award

The first Chinese American woman to become an Article III federal judge, Dolly Gee stands as role model and a respected member of the judiciary. The Honorable Judge Gee is a fifth generation Chinese American and descendant of a transcontinental railroad worker.

Mei Wah Lau

Community Trailblazer Award

Mei Wah Lau made history when she was named the first woman president of the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association (CCBA). In addition, she serves as Vice President and Branch Manager of East West Bank in Chinatown and works diligently through many outlets as a community volunteer and leader.

LA Times

Societal Transformation Award

The Los Angeles Times, the largest newspaper on the West Coast, is being recognized for its commitment to coverage of Asian American communities. Acquired in 2018 by Dr. Patrick and Michele B. Chan, the publication has also created innovative training programs that support diversity and encourage professionalism among a new generation of journalists.

The Honorable Hilda Solis

Courage in Leadership Award

A dedicated public servant, L.A. County Supervisor Hilda Solis is the first Latina to serve in the California State Assembly and State Senate. Supervisor Solis served as U.S. Secretary of Labor under President Barack Obama and has always actively sought to improve the quality of life for her constituents and beyond. She advocates for the protection of the environment and raising the minimum wage. Supervisor Solis established food banks during the COVID-19 crisis and continues to fight against anti-Asian racism.

Renee Tajima-Peña

Champion for Justice Award

Academy Award-nominated documentary filmmaker and educator, Ms. Tajima-Peña’s impactful body of work highlights social justice issues and includes the critically acclaimed five-part series recently broadcast on public television, Asian Americans, and the groundbreaking Who Killed Vincent Chin?. Ms. Tajima-Peña is also a professor of Asian American Studies at UCLA, where she is Director of the Center for EthnoCommunications.

Helen Zia

Dr. Dan S. Louie Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award

Helen Zia is an American journalist and long-time activist for Asian American and LGBTQ rights. Ms. Zia is a graduate of Princeton University’s first coeducational class and an award-winning author. Her remarkable career also includes tenure as Executive Editor of Ms. Magazine and as a founding board co-chair of the Women’s Media Center.

Jim Jang

President’s Award

Jim Jang is being recognized for his leadership and dedication to the Chinese American Museum. He served as President of the Friends of the Chinese American Museum from 2016-2018 and continues to support the Museum tirelessly through today. A retired automotive industry executive, Mr. Jang volunteers his time to support his local community by teaching AARP’s safe driving program for seniors. He is also actively involved with the Cerritos Baptist Church, where he founded the Serving Hands Ministry.

Dr. Carl K. Moy

A prominent obstetrician-gynecologist, Dr. Moy has been named the Honorary Dinner Chair for this year’s Historymakers Awards Gala along with his wife, Linda C. Moy. Dr. Moy is an ardent supporter of the Chinese American Museum and in 2017 was presented with the Historymaker Award for Excellence in Medicine and Community Service.

Linda C. Moy

Linda Moy became involved in charitable causes following a successful career as an entrepreneur. She serves on the board of directors for the Bowers Museum and Morning Light Foundation. In addition, she actively supports efforts for quality education, improved health care, cultural understanding, and better living conditions through the Moy family’s three foundations.

Ed Lew

FCAM Board Member

As Event Co-Chair, Ed Lew is helping to guide the transition of the Historymakers Awards Gala into its new virtual format. Mr. Lew, who is actively involved with FCAM’s Executive Committee, is the past president of the Asian American Bar Association of Los Angeles and the UCLA Asian Pacific Alumni Association. He also serves on the Pro Bono Advisory Council of Asian Americans Advancing Justice-LA and works as Assistant General Counsel for the Walt Disney Company.

Lan Ong

FCAM Board Member
Managing Director of Wing Hop Fung

Lan Ong, a member of the FCAM Executive Committee, returns this year as Event Co-Chair. She oversees trade and development in her family’s business, an Asian specialty store with locations in Arcadia, Monterey Park, and El Monte. She is also the founder of Bird Pick Tea & Herb, El Monte, offering tea education and catering to American consumers.